Organic 'Liso Calcutta' Gherkin
Organic 'Liso Calcutta' gherkin (Cucumis anguria) from the seed company Gaia, a productive heritage variety with uses similar to cucumber
The 'Liso Calcutta' gherkin develops long, vigorous vines with dense , medium-green foliage , typical of tropical cucurbits. Although not a true cucumber, its fruits share strong morphological and culinary similarities , with a smooth, edible skin and fresh flesh enjoyed both raw and cooked. The fruits, initially green, turn a pale yellow when ripe, signaling their full flavor.
This heirloom variety is distinguished by its exceptional yield , exceeding that of many traditional cucumbers, while also offering remarkable genetic stability as it does not cross-pollinate with common cucumbers . Easy to grow and versatile in the kitchen, it is a reliable and productive alternative for curious gardeners and those with diverse vegetable gardens.
Companion plants: Peas, Corn, Beans, Radish, Beetroot, Carrot, Onion, Marigold, Nasturtium, Sunflower, Oregano, Dill
Negative plants: Potato, Sage, Mint, Melon
Spread/carrying: Creeping to climbing
Plant height: Up to 200 cm
Quantity per packet: 20 seeds
Certification: Certified organic
Special features: Very high yield, edible skin, suitable for fresh or processed use, does not cross-pollinate with cucumbers, heirloom variety
Leaf color: Medium green
Texture/flavor: Fresh, crisp, sweet flesh
Cold tolerance: Sensitive to frost
Farming method
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for up to 24 hours and lightly scarify them to encourage rapid and even germination. Sow 1.2 cm deep , directly outdoors 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost , when the soil has warmed up, or start the seeds indoors 4 weeks before planting out . Space plants 30 to 60 cm apart and rows approximately 150 cm apart, in rich, well-drained soil .
The 'Liso Calcutta' cucumber prefers full sun (level 3) and consistent watering (level 3) , especially during flowering and fruiting. Trellising can be used to improve air circulation and facilitate harvesting.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the fruit when its skin turns from green to pale yellow . It can be picked younger for a softer texture or left to ripen further on the vine until it reaches a yellowish hue , depending on the desired use. Fresh fruit should be eaten soon after harvesting and does not keep for long.
Usage ideas
• Eaten fresh like a regular cucumber
• Used in preserves or marinades
• Sliced into summer salads
• Consumed with the skin on for simplicity
• A productive alternative to traditional cucumbers
The ' Liso Calcutta' gherkin impresses with its remarkable productivity , culinary versatility and varietal stability , offering an original and reliable option for vegetable gardens seeking diversity and yield.
